Swami Vivekananda

Ramakrishna Mission Swami Vivekananda's Ancestral House and Cultural Centre (birthplace of Swami Vivekananda; now a museum and cultural centre, inaugurated by the President of India A. P. J. Abdul Kalam) at Gourmohan Mukherjee Street

Radha Gobind Jiu Temple Antpur West Bengal

Swami Vivekananda (12 January 1863 – 4 July 1902), born Narendranath Datta, was an Indian Hindu monk, philosopher, and a key figure in the introduction of the Indian philosophies of Vedanta and Yoga to the Western world. He is also credited with raising interfaith awareness, bringing Hinduism to the status of a major world religion during the late 19th century. He was a major force in the revival of Hinduism in India and contributed to the concept of nationalism in colonial India. Vivekananda founded the Ramakrishna Mission and the Ramakrishna Math, organizations that have been involved in social service for over a century.

Early Life and Education

Swami Vivekananda was born in Kolkata, India, into an affluent family. From a young age, he showed an inclination towards spirituality. He was influenced by his guru, Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, who taught him that all living beings were an embodiment of the divine self; therefore, service to God could be rendered by service to mankind. Vivekananda was an avid reader and was educated in various subjects, including philosophy, religion, history, social science, art, and literature.

Philosophy and Teachings

Vivekananda's teachings and philosophy were based on Vedanta and Yoga, emphasizing the importance of personal experience and self-realization in the pursuit of knowledge. He advocated the idea that the true essence of religion was the common good and tolerance. Vivekananda was instrumental in introducing the Indian ethos to the Western world and is best known for his speech at the Parliament of the World's Religions in Chicago in 1893, where he addressed the gathering as "Sisters and Brothers of America," which won him widespread acclaim.

Contributions

Swami Vivekananda's contributions to Indian society are immense. He stressed the importance of education in national development and was a proponent of gender equality. He advocated for the upliftment of the poor and the need for the spread of mass education. Vivekananda's thoughts on nationalism and spiritual unity had a profound impact on India's struggle for independence.

Legacy

Swami Vivekananda's legacy is marked by his efforts to promote peace and human brotherhood on the premise of spiritual solidarity. His birthday, 12 January, is celebrated as National Youth Day in India. The Ramakrishna Mission and Ramakrishna Math he founded are active in various forms of social service, such as education, healthcare, rural upliftment, and disaster relief.

Works

Vivekananda was a prolific writer and a gifted orator. His works include lectures, essays, letters, and poems. Some of his notable works include Raja Yoga, Jnana Yoga, Karma Yoga, and My Master.

Death

Swami Vivekananda passed away on 4 July 1902 at the age of 39. His teachings and works continue to be a source of inspiration for millions around the world.